From MBA to Workday: How I Relaunched My Career with Opportunity Onramps
I grew up in Singapore and London, then spent a decade in New York for university and work. Across the globe, my journey has been one of exploration and growth. Studying economics and history during my undergraduate gave me a profound understanding of how technological advancements shape our society. Driven by this realization, I pursued a career in tech consulting to help businesses navigate digital transformation. I had the privilege of collaborating with Fortune 500 companies, guiding them in harnessing the power of emerging technologies to enhance their resilience and future-readiness.
My Career Journey Before My Break
After five years of specializing in AI and digital transformation, I felt a pull towards new horizons. Which is what led me back to London to pursue my MBA at London Business School (LBS). This two-year program was a strategic career break, an opportunity to recharge, reflect, and gain fresh perspectives both personally and professionally. It was during this time that I discovered Workday’s Opportunity Onramps program, a unique initiative designed to help professionals like myself re-enter the workforce after a career break. The program’s focus on reintegration and innovation resonated with me, and in July I joined Workday’s Value Management and Customer Strategy team in London.
Discovering a New Path: Workday’s Opportunity Onramps Program
I discovered Workday’s Opportunity Onramps program through an LBS alumna who also happened to be an Opportunity Onramps alumna after completing her MBA. Her positive experience piqued my interest, prompting me to further explore the program. Opportunity Onramps was most beneficial in bridging my career gap by providing a tailored approach to reintegration and exposure to Workday’s innovative culture. The program’s structure let me directly apply my MBA learnings to real projects, turning academic knowledge into practical skills. The program’s flexibility has been invaluable, allowing me to work full-time during the summer and part-time while completing my second year at LBS. This adaptability has allowed me to balance my professional growth at Workday with my academic commitments, providing a smooth transition back into the workforce while completing my degree.
Mind the Gap: Bridging My Career-break
The Opportunity Onramps program has been instrumental in facilitating my smooth transition back into the workforce, particularly in my role within Workday’s Value Management team. Working on business cases has provided an excellent platform to apply and refine the financial skills I gained during my MBA, effectively bridging the gap between theory and practice. My colleagues have been invaluable in helping me navigate complex financial models, which has significantly accelerated my integration into the team. The program’s comprehensive training on Workday’s solutions has given me a deep understanding of their impact on clients, enabling me to impactfully contribute from the start. Regular interactions with clients and leveraging internal resources have enhanced my insight into market needs. The gradual increase in responsibility has been crucial in building my confidence as I’ve taken on more challenging tasks. This structured approach has ensured steady professional growth throughout my time in the program.
Brilliant Opportunities: Charting my Course
The Opportunity Onramps program has been transformative, significantly shaping my career trajectory. Its flexibility has been crucial, allowing me to explore a role in Value Management at Workday while completing my MBA. This unique arrangement provides me with real-world exposure to a new field while simultaneously applying my academic learnings. The program’s structure enables me to bridge theory and practice daily, enhancing both my professional growth and academic performance. Working in Value Management has opened my eyes to new possibilities within the tech sector, complementing my previous tech strategy experience with consumer-side insights. Looking ahead, I aim to leverage this comprehensive understanding to drive innovation and create value in the tech industry. The program has reinforced my passion for technology and enhanced my adaptability to its rapid evolution.
The Power of Pause: Reflecting and Re-entering the Workforce
Everyone’s career break is unique, and I recognise that my journey pursuing a graduate degree is just one of many paths. However, regardless of the reason or length of the break, it’s crucial to reconnect with your career anchors. Understand the value of what you bring to the table and be intentional about the skills and experiences you’re seeking in your next chapter. Taking time off can be incredibly empowering, allowing you to return with a fresh perspective, which can be a significant asset in navigating your career relaunch. Remember, your time away has equipped you with valuable insights and a fresh perspective that can be a significant asset in your career relaunch.
If you’re looking for a company that values its employees, fosters a culture of growth, and celebrates unique backgrounds, look no further than Workday. It’s a place where you can shine, do meaningful work, and continuously level up your skills.
I’m incredibly grateful for the Opportunity Onramps program and the support I’ve received at Workday. If you’re considering a career break or looking to relaunch your career, visit our career site to learn more about Workday’s Hiring Programs.
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